Ilfracombe Town Council is proud to highlight the strength, resilience and community spirit of the
town in response to recent media coverage linked to a letter sent to the Police and Crime
Commissioner (PCC) in April 2026.
The Council wishes to clarify that the purpose of the letter was to advocate for greater support,
resources and powers for local policing, recognising that officers are already working hard under
increasing pressure. The intention was not to criticise local officers, but to ensure they are better
equipped to support the community and respond to challenges effectively.
While the letter outlined issues such as anti-social behaviour—challenges faced by many coastal
towns—it is equally important to recognise the many positive developments and community-led
initiatives that make Ilfracombe a vibrant and welcoming place.
Ilfracombe benefits from a strong and active network of community groups and volunteers who
give their time and energy to improving the town and supporting others. Throughout the year,
locally organised events such as the Ilfracombe Art Trail, Green Man Festival, Carnival and
Christmas Lights celebrations bring residents and visitors together, contributing significantly to
the town’s cultural life and local economy.
Equally important is the work taking place to support some of the most vulnerable members of
the community. Initiatives such as Wellbeing Wednesdays, Memory Cafés and the Men’s Shed
provide vital social connection, reduce isolation and offer practical support for those who need
it most. Alongside this, volunteers continue to care for the local environment, with regular beach
cleans, street cleanups and community-led efforts to maintain and improve public spaces.
There has also been a strong focus on creating opportunities for young people, including the
development of a new youth club, helping to provide safe, positive spaces and activities that
support the next generation.
These efforts reflect a community that is proactive, caring and determined to improve its future.
They sit alongside ongoing work by the Town Council and its partners, including multi-agency
collaboration, investment in initiatives such as Street Marshals, and continued engagement with
residents and businesses to address local challenges.
Local business representatives have emphasised that, while there are visible issues caused by
a small minority, these do not define Ilfracombe. The town has seen positive progress on the
High Street, including a reduction in vacant units, demonstrating growing confidence and
investment.
The Council remains mindful that how Ilfracombe is represented matters. Unbalanced reporting
risks overshadowing the substantial progress being made and the many positive stories that
reflect daily life in the town.
Maintaining a fair and accurate narrative is essential to protecting Ilfracombe’s reputation as a
welcoming destination for residents, businesses and visitors alike.
By writing to the PCC, Ilfracombe Town Council sought to ensure that the town’s challenges are
recognised at a strategic level, and that additional support is provided to the local police so they
can continue the valuable work they already undertake within the community.
Ilfracombe Town Council will continue to work collaboratively with the police, local organisations,
businesses, and residents to build on this positive momentum and ensure the town remains a
safe, supportive and thriving place for all.
